Overview

The AR is an androgen-activated steroid receptor member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors. Signaling by the androgen receptor plays a key role in proper development and function of male reproductive organs.

Expression

AR is expressed at low to moderate levels in tissues in all major physiological systems (central nervous system (CNS), endocrine, metabolic, gastrointestinal, immune, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory and structural), with peaks of expression in the epididymis, ovary, uterus, prostate, vas deferens, adrenal gland, kidney and and skeletal muscle.

View full NURSA AR expression dataset

Diseases

AR dysfunction has been associated with cancer (prostate cancer, breast cancer (male), ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, testicular cancer), cardiovascular defects (coronary artery disease), immune diseases (type I diabetes, diabetic retinopathy), metabolic disorders (obesity, androgen insensitivity syndrome, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, type II diabetes), neurological conditions (Alzheimer's disease, migraine), pyschiatric disorders (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, major depressive disorder/depression, schizophrenia), reproductive conditions (azoospermia, endometriosis, fertility) developmental (hypospadias) and other diseases (spinal and bulbar atrophy of Kennedy).

Phenotypes

Targeted deletion (knockout) of AR results in disruption of development (limbs, digital & tail), behavioral, digestive & alimentary function, the immune system, reproduction, the renal/unrinary system, homeostasis and metabolism, behavioral and neurological function and the cardiovascular system.

View AR Diseases and Phenotypes section